Hello,

In April, I will be attempting to run as much of the 26.2 miles of the Brighton Marathon as my legs can take.

By doing this, I hope to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

At Christmas 2015, our family received the news that Harriett, my 16 year old cousin, had been diagnosed with Small Cell Carcinoma Ovarian Cancer; a rare, highly malignant tumour that mainly affects young women. This form of cancer is very aggressive and grows quickly. By the end of July 2016, despite Harrie having already been given the all clear, after a period of remission, she received the news that the cancer had recurred and spread to her stomach. Within a week of being readmitted to hospital where they tried various forms of treatment, on August 1st 2016, Harrie lost her short but determined battle. 

Unfortunately, as it is such a rare form of ovarian cancer (it accounts for less than 0.5% of ovarian cancers diagnosed), there are so few cases which means there has been relatively little research into new drugs specifically for small cell ovarian cancer. This is where raising awareness, support and money is vital to ensure we try and prevent the suffering cancer causes to people.

Harriett was supported in different ways by various charities: Rays of Sunshine, Teenage Cancer Trust and Little Princess Trust, as well as Macmillan. I have chosen to fundraise for Macmillan due to the work they do in supporting people affected, as well as the research they continue to do.

So if you could take the time to donate, anything will be greatly appreciated to help this cause.

Alice x